Pitru Paksh – Relevance, Do’s and Don’ts as per Vedic Astrology

Shraadh or Pitru Paksh is observed to honour the souls of our ancestors. In 2025, it commences from 7^th September 2025 and ends on 21^st September 2025. It falls in the lunar period of Bhadrapada beginning with full moon day. The last day of Pitru Paksha usually falls on the day of Amavas.

Mr. Prashant Kapoor, the world’s 1st medical astrologer, explains the importance of Pitru Paksh and why it is important to honour our ancestors.

Though this period of 16 days is considered inauspicious by Hindus, it is imperative to honour the souls of the ancestors. Anything new isn’t begun during this time. As per the Hindu tradition, three preceding generations of one’s ancestors reside between heaven and earth in Pitruloka. The God of Death, Yama governs the Pitruloka. The 3 generations residing in Pitruloka get the benefits of Shraadh ceremony performed on Earth by the kids of the residents of Pitruloka. According to Shastra, the Shradh ceremonies bring happiness to the souls in their rebirth.

Shraadh should be done by the son and it is compulsory as per Hindu traditions since the soul travels to heaven. Should ideally be done by the son, but can be performed by anyone if the intent is nice. The shraadh is usually performed on the specific lunar day, the soul passed away. This ritual, along with Shraadh is also performed on the death anniversary of the deceased soul, as per the lunar calendar.

Members of the Brahman samaj are usually called to serve food to them. The food offerings are cooked in silver or copper vessels. It should include kheer, lassi, rice, dal, sabzi. Since the Brahman samaj is known to be the samaj closest to God as per Hindu traditions, they are offered food as an ode to feeding and keeping our ancestors in Pitruloka happy. A dog or a cow is also fed. The food made, a portion of it is kept in the window of the house. If a crow comes and devours the food, the offering is considered to be accepted. Once all of them eaten, the members of the family can begin eating their food.

Some families also recite Bhagwat Puran and Bhagwad Gita during these 16 days. Some families also present gifts to priests or pay them to recite prays for their ancestors’ well-being and happiness in Pitru Loka.

For pitrudosh pooja, this time is the perfect time.

The following things should be avoided during Pitru Paksha as per Vedic astrology:

• No consumption of non-vegetarian food
• No new beginning or decision making during this time
• No weddings, engagement, or new sale or new purchase
• Avoid purchasing gold and silver items
• Avoid travelling long distances
• Avoid cutting hair or nails
• Have a calm and peaceful attitude
• Avoid negative energy through negative talks or negative behaviour

Thus, instead of negative attitudes and behaviour, focus on feeding food for your ancestors’ souls.